2019 Vauxhall Combo 1.6L Diesel · VT19 LWH

The most recent MOT, carried out on 31 July 2026, resulted in a pass but recorded a number of minor defects and advisories – a severely deteriorated front outer drive‑shaft CV boot, front brake disc and pad wear, a slight power‑steering hose seepage and a non‑functional windscreen washer. Earlier in the same month the vehicle failed for the same CV‑boot condition and the washer fault, while previous years show a pattern of recurring brake‑disc advisories (both front and rear) and occasional lighting or exhaust leaks. Overall the trend is one of stabilisation – the vehicle now passes the test but the same wear items reappear each year, indicating that the underlying components are approaching the end of their service life rather than improving. At 103 195 miles the van averages roughly 14 700 miles per annum over its seven‑year life, which is well above the typical 10 000‑12 000 mile annual usage for a light commercial vehicle. This higher mileage accelerates wear on consumables such as brake discs, pads, tyres and suspension bushings, and places additional stress on the drivetrain, particularly the CV joints and power‑steering system. The mileage also suggests the vehicle has been used regularly rather than stored for long periods, so time‑related degradation (fluid ageing, battery wear) will be as relevant as mileage‑related wear. A prospective buyer should give close attention to the front CV boot that has been flagged repeatedly; look for grease splatter around the joint, cracked boot material or loose retaining clips, and listen for a clicking or whine from the front axle when accelerating or cornering. The front brake discs have been described as worn, pitted and scored, and the pads are thin – measure disc thickness (minimum 1.5 mm) and pad remaining material; any vibration or shudder under braking, especially at higher speeds, would indicate that replacement is imminent. The slight power‑steering hose leak should be inspected for dampness around the rack and any loss of steering assist; a soft, noisy steering feel can be a precursor to pump failure. The windscreen washer system must be tested for proper operation, and the rear registration‑plate lamp and rear tyre condition noted – a tyre with sidewall cracking or perishing needs replacement, and a non‑functioning lamp is a straightforward electrical fix but should be verified. Beyond the recorded defects, the buyer should perform age‑related checks typical for a seven‑year van. Examine all tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot or age cracks regardless of tread depth, and confirm that tread wear is even across the front and rear. Test the 12 V battery voltage under load; a seven‑year unit often loses capacity and may require replacement. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the recommended two‑year intervals, looking for milky or discoloured fluid as a sign of degradation. Inspect the chassis and under‑body for corrosion, especially around suspension mounting points, steering rack and exhaust hangers. Finally, request a full service history and any recent brake or suspension component replacements, as documented work will give confidence that the vehicle’s wear items are being addressed before they become safety concerns.